A fundraising campaign has been initiated by the mother of Eva Mangenje, a nine-year-old girl severely injured in a dog attack in Erdington, Birmingham. The incident occurred on Sunday, November 6, at around 6:30 pm, as Eva and her mother returned from a shop visit in Springthorpe Green near Spiral Green in Pype Hayes.
Eva was attacked by a loose dog described as an ‘XL Bully-type’ with dark brown fur, while a second dog, light brown or tan in color, was present but did not attack. The owner was not present at the scene. Eva sustained horrific injuries to her legs, arm, and groin requiring two surgeries performed by plastic surgeons.
Three local men, Trevor, Errol, and Martin, bravely intervened to pull the dog off Eva. Errol and Martin, who witnessed the attack while driving, stopped their car and valiantly tried to fend off the dog, even resorting to kicking it repeatedly in their effort to protect the child.
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The traumatic attack left Eva with emotional scars as well as physical injuries. She experiences flashbacks and nightmares, causing ongoing mental distress. Her mother, Alicia Wint, has since launched a GoFundMe to cover therapy expenses and potential legal fees as they seek justice and work to prevent future incidents.
Alicia shared, “What started as a simple trip to the shop turned into every parent’s worst nightmare. Eva is healing physically but the emotional impact remains deep. Despite this, she is determined to help others who face similar challenges when she grows up.”
Eva’s sister, Nyeama, was on the phone with her during the attack and immediately called emergency services while rushing to Eva’s side. Alicia emphasized the importance of moving away from their current home near the attack site, noting the housing shortage adds to the challenge.
Authorities responded promptly. The West Midlands Ambulance Service treated Eva on-site before transferring her to Birmingham Children’s Hospital for further care. West Midlands Police are actively investigating the case and searching for the dog and its owner. They have asked anyone with information to contact them quoting log 3474 from November 16.
Eva’s family and community remain grateful for the support they’ve received and are determined to continue fighting for her recovery and to ensure no other child endures such an attack.